What to Visit in Montevideo?
Uruguay's capital is a true gem of South America.
Uruguay's capital is a true gem of South America. Renowned for the beauty of its coastline and its Pocitos Bay, it is also known for its splendid historic center, nestled just steps from the Rio de la Plata. But this city, nicknamed the « Switzerland of Latin America » harbors many other wonders… You're wondering what to do in Montevideo? Pack your bags and follow us for a journey through the heart of the city…
1. Swimming in Pocitos Bay
Set on the banks of the Rio de la Plata (literally the « silver river »), Pocitos Bay enchants all its visitors on holiday! Renowned for its calm atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, it will charm you with its beauty. Several beachfront hotels offer exceptional views from their balconies, perched above the Atlantic Ocean.
Pocitos is also known for hosting sporting events, such as volleyball championships. During the day, drawn by these activities, young people flock to the beaches, bringing a breath of fresh energy to this charming resort town… A chic and family-friendly destination (recognized, moreover, for the quality of its restaurants).
2. Discovering General Artigas' Mausoleum
General Artigas is an important figure in Uruguay's history who played a key role in the country's independence. During your stopover in Montevideo, make a stop at Plaza Independencia to admire the splendid mausoleum of this former military leader. Crowned with a statue of the man called « El Libertador » (The Liberator), the building houses a small museum…
After descending a few steps, you'll discover a vast hall displaying the actions General Artigas undertook for freedom. Guarded by officers in military dress, the Artigas Mausoleum is an enriching – and free – visit that will teach you much about the country's history.
3. Exploring the Ciudad Vieja Quarter
Just a short walk from Independence Plaza, you'll find the Ciudad Vieja neighborhood. Once surrounded by a fortification wall, this part of the city still retains vestiges (such as the splendid citadel gate) and many other ancient treasures, particularly along Brecha Street…
Old Montevideo also features buildings from the colonial era. Among them? The Solís Theatre, designed in 1856, and the Cabildo de Montevideo, built between 1804 and 1812 (it now houses the city's archives).
4. Visiting Palacio Taranco and Its Decorative Arts Museum
Standing proudly in the heart of the historic center, Palacio Taranco is a testament to splendor. Built in the early 20th century, it houses the city's Decorative Arts Museum. Inside, you'll discover its superb architecture, as well as remarkable furniture and crafted pieces dating from the 13th to 3rd centuries B.C.
During your visit, you can also admire paintings by European artists, Baccarat crystal, and in the basement, impressive collections related to Greco-Roman archaeology and Near Eastern art. A timeless place…
5. Shopping at Punta Carretas Prison or THE thing to visit and do in Montevideo
The Punta Carretas shopping center is known for its location within a former penitentiary building. In 1971, while the country was going through a turbulent period, around a hundred prisoners (Tupamaro guerrillas, far-left activists who advocated urban guerrilla warfare between the 1960s and 1970s) managed to escape from prison…
A few years later, after a major riot, the prison was emptied and then converted into a shopping center in 1994, under the name Punta Carretas Shopping. Today? The venue houses numerous shops and restaurants, as well as several movie theaters.
6. Lunch at MAM – Mercado Agricola Montevideo
Designated as an agricultural market (which also doubles as a souvenir market for tourists…) the MAM is a must-visit destination to taste Uruguayan gastronomy. In the aisles of this 19th-century market, numerous stalls offer traditional dishes and grilled meats at any time of day. Activities (such as magic shows) are sometimes scheduled to give visitors a pleasant shopping experience.
7. Discovering Constructivism at Museo Gurvich
At Sarandí 524, you'll find the Museo Gurvich dedicated to Lithuanian artist José Gurvich (who emigrated to Montevideo in 1931). The institution – which aims to « promote and disseminate the life and work » of Gurvich through a permanent collection – highlights his abstract work, derived from constructivist art.
This is an art form descending from Cubism and Suprematism (an art movement born in Russia in the early 20th century). Want to learn more? Visit the museum (open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 18:00 and Saturday from 11:00 to 15:00).
Frequently asked questions
The 7 must-see attractions in Montevideo are: Pocitos Bay, General Artigas' Mausoleum (Plaza Independencia), the Ciudad Vieja neighborhood, Palacio Taranco and its Decorative Arts Museum, Punta Carretas Shopping Center (former prison), Mercado Agricola Montevideo (MAM), and Museo Gurvich.
Yes, entry to General Artigas' Mausoleum, located on Plaza Independencia, is completely free. You can explore a small museum retracing Artigas' role in Uruguayan independence, guarded by officers in military dress.
Museo Gurvich, located at Sarandí 524 in Montevideo, is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 18:00, and Saturday from 11:00 to 15:00. It is dedicated to the work of Lithuanian artist José Gurvich and his constructivist art.
Punta Carretas Shopping is a unique shopping center housed within the walls of a former prison. Converted in 1994, this prison is famous for the spectacular escape of Tupamaro activists in 1971. Today, it houses shops, restaurants, and movie theaters.
Montevideo is best visited from December to March (Southern Hemisphere summer), when temperatures are mild and Pocitos Bay is lively. If you want to experience Carnival (one of the world's longest), plan your trip between January and February.
Most of Montevideo's must-see attractions (Ciudad Vieja, Plaza Independencia, Palacio Taranco) are within walking distance in the historic center. To reach Pocitos Bay or Mercado Agricola, you can use the city bus system or opt for a taxi or ride-sharing service.
